Principal Michael Jones says Seagoville High School is in a unique spot – a Dallas school that’s out in the country. Its location has in part driven interest in some of the programs offered at the school.
“Many people don’t know we have a magnet school here at Seagoville High School for environmental systems, environmental science and agriculture,” he said.
In addition, there are 75 or so students enrolled in the school’s Veterinary Technician program.
Instructor Barry Jones said the program partners with the Humane Society to receive dogs for students to care for as they learn about veterinary. Students learn how to conduct medical exams, dental exams, draw blood, check for heartworm and other parasites.
“Then the dogs are adopted out by the faculty here, or staff here or community people here that want a dog,” Jones said.
Student Ann Marie Robinson has plans to attend Cornell University after graduation to pursue a career as a veterinarian, and has even taken summer classes at Cornell.
“I’ve had a passion for animals since I was young,” Robinson said. “And I didn’t really realize I wanted to make a career out of it until I became a part of the Vet Med program here at Seagoville High School.”
The popularity of the special programs are driving the need for more instructional space. Thanks to the district’s Bridge Plan, an entire new wing will be added to the school to accommodate the expanding enrollment.
In particular, the Veterinary Technician program is making a positive impact, Jones said.
“They’re creating a mindset of social responsibility to advocate for the animals,” he said of students. “And by that, to advocate for others in the community.”
